The story of this vow renewal in Tuscany Italy actually starts two years ago. Tawnie and Mark contacted me with the idea to have a romantic blessing on Capri. However, due to some problems, including the passing of their beloved family pet, they postpone their travels. A year passes and they came back to me ready to discuss and plan again. Open to ideas and suggestions we explore other areas of Italy. In the end, we settle on trying to create a wonderful vow renewal ceremony in Tuscany.
Planning their vow renewal in Tuscany Italy
Seeing as they know little about the area they ask me to make recommendations. Having now waited a little longer the ceremony is now even more important. They will be celebrating their 10th anniversary! Ten years ago they wedded with a simple civil wedding without the music. Basically it didn’t have the romance, passion and drama! So now, the dream is to have a long scenic aisle to walk down and wonderful music.
We consider San Galgano and although it is an amazing place it doesn’t seem appropriate for renewing your vows. We also look at one of Tuscany’s finest villas. In the end we choose Castello di Celsa and what a magnificent choice! The castle and gardens are impeccable, and how romantic renew your vows and celebrate love in such an exclusive and private destination.
The day of their vow renewal in Tuscany Italy
The day starts with a little anxiety for the weather as when we arrive it is raining constantly in the distance. Although sunshine bathes the castle walls with warmth we can see the showers and downpours that are taking place in the distance. If it does rain we will have the ceremony inside the chapel but we are praying we will be able to fulfil the dream and perform their renewal ceremony outdoors.
After a short walk around the grounds to get some photos of the impressive architecture and Italian gardens I head inside to find the groom. He is in high spirits and full of energy so we chat away as I take a few photos of him getting ready, he is wearing a David August Couture tuxedo.
On the other side of the castle Tawnie is concluding hair and makeup, once she finishes there is time for me to take a few portraits of her in that beautiful dress. She missed the opportunity to do these images at her wedding so I understand the importance of getting some lovely images this time.
She looks incredible, her simple dress fits perfectly and makes an elegant statement. Her bouquet is at her request quite classic and simple with a few red roses that reflect her signature red lips. As I start photographing the message arrives that the weather is threatening to dampen our day so we must hurry. After only 5 minutes of photos it is time for us to to make our way to the ceremony.
The emotional vow renewal ceremony in the Italian Garden
Mark waits in the Italian gardens, an 8 piece string section surrounds him. The music is powerful as Tawnie starts her long walk to meet her husband. They watch each other with excitement as she makes her way through the Italian gardens. There are plenty of tears as the emotions are overwhelming. But these are tears of happiness and love.
The ceremony is perfect and at the moment they renew their vows to each other the strings provide soft background music. Gazing at each other through tears they read their heartfelt vows and everyone involved, including the musicians, feels a lump in their throat.
After the ceremony they exit to find a bottle of champagne, they pop the cork and celebrate with a refreshing glass of bubbles. We spend some times visiting a few locations in the castle gardens and they also have a first dance in the courtyard under a shower of rose petals.
A romantic candle lit dinner
Next, we drive from the castle to their accommodation at Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco. I take a few photos around sunset before we leave them to enjoy a private dinner in the members cantina.
Having a vow renewal ceremony in Tuscany Italy is a wonderful idea and incredibly romantic. We can help you realize your anniversary event or renewal of vows and if you aren’t married yet we can help you elope in Italy or plan your dream wedding.
Credits
- Event Planner – Jules Bower
- Photographer – Jules Bower
- Venue – Castello di Celsa
- Hair and Makeup – Cherie Spisso
- Groom’s Attire – David August Couture
- Celebrants – Blessings from Italy